2 Samuel 3:6

Abner Defects to David’s Camp

3:6 As the war continued between the house of Saul and the house of David, Abner was becoming more influential ¹  in the house of Saul.

2 Samuel 3:12

3:12 Then Abner sent messengers ²  to David saying, “To whom does the land belong? Make an agreement ³  with me, and I will do whatever I can ⁴  to cause all Israel to turn to you.”

[3:6]  ¹ tn Heb “was strengthening himself.” The statement may have a negative sense here, perhaps suggesting that Abner was overstepping the bounds of political propriety in a self-serving way.

[3:12]  ² tn The Hebrew text adds here, “on his behalf.”

[3:12]  ³ tn Heb “cut a covenant.” So also in vv. 13, 21.

[3:12]  ⁴ tn Heb “and behold, my hand is with you.”